Orange Herbed Chicken and Rice

Orange Herbed Chicken and Rice Recipe - Flavorful and Easy to Make

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour and 10 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Orange Herbed Chicken and Rice is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the tangy sweetness of orange juice with a blend of savory herbs. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, as it is both delicious and easy to prepare.

History

The combination of citrus and herbs in cooking has been a popular culinary tradition for centuries. The use of orange juice in savory dishes adds a bright and refreshing flavor, while the herbs add depth and complexity to the dish. This recipe takes inspiration from Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, where the use of citrus and herbs is common in both savory and sweet dishes.

Ingredients

6 chicken breast halves (about 2.25 lb or 113 g)
vegetable cooking spray
1.5 cups orange juice
0.25 cup dry white wine
2 tsp dried oregano
0.75 tsp garlic powder
0.5 tsp dried sage
0.5 tsp dried rosemary, crushed
0.5 tsp dried thyme
0.5 tsp ground black pepper
salt to taste (optional)
paprika
1 tbsp cornstarch
2 tbsp cold water
0.25 cup orange marmalade
3 cups hot cooked rice
orange slices for garnish

How to prepare

Place the chicken, skin side down, in a 13x9 inch baking dish coated with cooking spray.
In a medium bowl, combine orange juice, wine, oregano, garlic powder, sage, rosemary, thyme, pepper, and salt. Pour the mixture over the chicken. Sprinkle with paprika.
Cover the dish and bake at 350°F (177°C) for 30 minutes. Then, turn the chicken and sprinkle with paprika. Bake, uncovered, for an additional 30 to 40 minutes or until the chicken is fork-tender and the juices run clear (not pink).
Pour the pan juices into a small saucepan and skim off the fat. In a small bowl, combine cornstarch and water to make a mixture. Add the cornstarch mixture and marmalade to the saucepan. Cook until the sauce becomes clear and thickened, stirring constantly.
Serve the chicken and sauce over hot rice. Garnish with orange slices.

Variations

Substitute chicken thighs or drumsticks for the chicken breasts for a different flavor and texture.
Add chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, to the sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a healthier option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use fresh orange juice for the best flavor in this dish.

- Marinating the chicken in the orange juice mixture for a few hours before cooking will help infuse the flavors into the meat.

- Be sure to skim off any excess fat from the pan juices before making the sauce to keep the dish light and flavorful.

- Garnish the dish with fresh orange slices for a beautiful presentation.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Orange Herbed Chicken and Rice with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete and nutritious meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the chicken in the oven helps to keep it moist and tender, while allowing the flavors to meld together.

- Making a sauce with the pan juices and marmalade adds a sweet and tangy element to the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use lemon juice or pineapple juice instead of orange juice for a different citrus flavor.

- Substitute honey or maple syrup for the marmalade for a different sweetness.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the chicken in the orange juice mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.

- The sauce can also be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Orange Herbed Chicken and Rice on a large platter garnished with fresh herbs and orange slices for a beautiful presentation. - Arrange the chicken and rice in individual bowls for a more elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Orange Herbed Chicken and Rice with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.

- Serve with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat the dish in the microwave or oven until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Orange Herbed Chicken and Rice contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Orange Herbed Chicken and Rice contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Orange Herbed Chicken and Rice contains approximately 5 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Orange Herbed Chicken and Rice contains approximately 30 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamin C from the orange juice, as well as various minerals from the herbs and chicken.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens, but be sure to check for any specific allergies to the ingredients used.

Summary

Orange Herbed Chicken and Rice is a balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, while being relatively low in fat and calories.

Summary

Orange Herbed Chicken and Rice is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the flavors of citrus and herbs for a satisfying meal. With a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and vitamins, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew I had to try it. It was a sunny afternoon, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret for our weekly tea time. As we chatted and sipped our tea, Margaret suddenly pulled out a worn and tattered recipe card from her recipe box.

"Have you ever tried Orange Herbed Chicken and Rice?" Margaret asked with a twinkle in her eye.

I shook my head, intrigued by the name of the dish. Margaret proceeded to tell me how she had acquired the recipe from her grandmother, who had learned it from a dear friend many years ago. The combination of citrusy orange, savory herbs, and tender chicken sounded like a delightful flavor profile that I couldn't wait to experience.

Margaret generously offered to share the recipe with me, and I eagerly accepted. As she read over the ingredients and instructions, I could feel my mouth watering in anticipation. I made a mental note to gather the necessary ingredients and give the recipe a try in my own kitchen.

A few days later, I set out to make Orange Herbed Chicken and Rice for dinner. I gathered fresh oranges, fragrant herbs, tender chicken thighs, and fluffy rice. As I chopped, seasoned, and simmered, the aroma of citrus and herbs filled my kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

When the dish was finally ready, I plated it up and took a bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth, a perfect balance of tangy orange, earthy herbs, and succulent chicken. The rice soaked up all the delicious juices, creating a comforting and satisfying meal that warmed me from the inside out.

I couldn't wait to share this recipe with my family and friends. I started making Orange Herbed Chicken and Rice regularly, adding my own little twists and tweaks to make it my own. Each time I made it, I thought of Margaret and her grandmother, grateful for their generosity in passing down this wonderful recipe to me.

Over the years, I continued to make Orange Herbed Chicken and Rice for special occasions and family gatherings. It became a signature dish of mine, loved by all who tried it. I shared the recipe with anyone who asked, passing on the tradition of this delicious and comforting meal to the next generation.

As I look back on that sunny afternoon with Margaret, I can't help but smile at how a simple recipe exchange led to the creation of a beloved dish in my own kitchen. The memories of making Orange Herbed Chicken and Rice will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy and connection that food can bring to our lives.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a warm and comforting meal, give Orange Herbed Chicken and Rice a try. I promise you won't be disappointed. And who knows, maybe one day you'll pass on the recipe to someone special, just like Margaret did for me.